Year-Round Instructor

Trailside Discovery Camp is an award-winning 10 week summer camp for local Alaskans ages 5-14 that offers environmental education and high adventure day programs as well as overnight trips that take campers into Alaska’s wilderness.

Our 2026-27 seasonal camps include Winter Break Camp running December 18, 21-23, 28-30, 2026 and Spring Break Camp running March 15-19, 2027 .

Winter Break Camp will run out of Russian Jack Elementary. Instructors can work one day or more depending on their availability. You can work with year-round leadership team so create a schedule that works for you. Returning staff do not need to attend any specific training to work Winter Break Camp, but if you are new to Trailside, you will be required to attend a training session (date TBD).

Position Summary:

The Instructor is responsible for the overall success of lesson implementation and the safety of their group. Instructors facilitate engaging outdoor learning experiences, maintain camper safety, and support positive group dynamics. They serve as the leader for their group and create a fun, inclusive, and educational camp experience. The Instructor reports to the on-site manager, likely a member of the year-round leadership team.

Primary Responsibilities

Leadership/Camper Supervision & Safety

- Provide active supervision of campers throughout the camp day.

- Establish clear group expectations and behavior agreements that promote safety, inclusion, and fun.

- Foster a positive camp culture while supporting the social and emotional development of campers.

- Manage group dynamics and address behavioral concerns using positive behavior management strategies.

- Remain with the assigned group during activities, transportation, meals, and transitions.

- Serve as a positive role model through professionalism, enthusiasm, and responsible outdoor behavior.

- Ensure campers are physically and emotionally safe at all times.

- Maintain primary responsibility for the safety and well-being of assigned campers.

- Recognize and appropriately respond to hazards, injuries, illnesses, emergencies, and changing environmental conditions.

- Assess risks related to weather, wildlife, terrain, transportation, and camp activities.

- Ensure compliance with camp policies, safety procedures, and American Camp Association standards.

- Assist with emergency response, incident management, and evacuation procedures as needed.

- Supervise loading and unloading of camp equipment and transportation vehicles.

Program Delivery

- Lead environmental education, outdoor recreation, and high-adventure activities for campers ages 5 to 14.

- Deliver engaging lessons, games, and activities that support camp learning objectives.

- Adapt activities and lesson plans based on weather conditions, camper needs, site logistics, and teachable moments.

- Prepare for daily programming by reviewing curriculum materials and activity plans.

- Maintain a high-energy, engaging learning environment throughout the day.

- Develop and implement backup activities when the schedule changes.

- Support camp traditions, songs, ceremonies, and group-building activities.

Teamwork & Communication

- Model effective childcare, outdoor leadership, and teaching practices.

- Foster teamwork and collaboration among camp staff including managers and other instructors

- Communicate effectively with campers, families, and staff members.

- Support a welcoming, inclusive, and respectful camp culture.

- Contribute to a positive team environment by demonstrating flexibility and professionalism.

Environmental Stewardship

- Model responsible outdoor behavior and environmental stewardship.

- Help campers develop appreciation for Alaska's natural environments.

- Support Trailside Discovery Camp's mission of connecting youth to nature through experiential learning.

- Leave camp sites, trails, and natural areas clean and cared for.

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements

- Must be at least 16 years of age.

- Previous experience working with children or youth in a camp, educational, recreation, childcare, or similar setting.

- Current First Aid and CPR certification, or ability to obtain certification before the start of camp. (Must be in person or blended course, meeting American Camp Association standards from a nationally recognized and accredited program)

- Valid driver's license and ability to meet camp driving requirements. (For staff interested in being drivers 21+)

- Available to work at least one day of Winter Break Camp

Preferred Qualifications

- Experience teaching environmental education, outdoor recreation, or adventure-based programming.

- Experience leading groups of children in outdoor settings.

- Experience mentoring, supervising, or training staff.

- College coursework or a degree in education, environmental studies, natural sciences, recreation, youth development, or a related field.

- Knowledge of Alaska's ecology, wildlife, and natural history.

- Experience with high-adventure activities such as cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, fat-tire biking, hiking, or fishing.

Personal Skills

- Strong leadership and decision making abilities.

- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

- Ability to remain calm and effective in changing outdoor environments.

- Strong organizational and time management skills.

- Ability to work collaboratively with diverse staff, campers, and families.

- Commitment to equity, inclusion, and creating welcoming outdoor spaces for all participants. Positive attitude and willingness to learn.

- Dependable, punctual, and responsible.

- Strong communication and teamwork skills.

- Ability to adapt to changing schedules, weather conditions, and camper needs.

- Ability to remain patient, energetic, and engaged throughout the camp day.

Physical Requirements

- Ability to spend the majority of the workday outdoors in varying weather conditions including cold and snow.

- Ability to walk, hike, stand, and participate in physical activities for extended periods.

- Ability to carry camp supplies and equipment.

- Ability to actively supervise campers in outdoor settings.

Training & Attendance Expectations

- Attend pre-camp training if not a returning staff member

- Participate in staff meetings and professional development opportunities throughout the summer.

- Work with year-round leadership team to communicate availability and work scheduled hours for Winter Break Camp

- Follow all Trailside Discovery Camp policies, procedures, and safety standards.

- Be prepared to assist with additional camp duties as assigned by camp leadership.